Paris Bennett

As one of the youngest finalists on this year's American Idol, Paris Bennett quickly and deftly established herself as the contestant to beat.

SEX APPEAL

SUCCESS

Paris Bennett Biography

Paris, born and raised near the Twin Cities, has been singing since she was 4 years old, which didn't come as much of a surprise to her musically inclined mother and grandmother (both were members of a respected gospel group Sounds of Blackness). Recognizing Paris' raw talent, her mother and grandmother began the slow process of teaching her how to effectively use her powerful voice. Paris received her first taste of success when she landed a major role in her high school's production of The Wiz. Shortly after that Paris decided to try out for American Idol.

With the support of her family, Paris made the trek to Greensboro, North Carolina, to audition for the show. She so thoroughly impressed Paula Abdul with her interpretation of the Dixie Chicks' "Cowboy Take Me Away" that Paula asked her to perform another tune on the spot. At the drop of a dime, Paris sang "Take Five" by Billie Holiday, leading the judges to unanimously agree to take Paris to the next round of auditions.

On the show, Paris is known for consistently wowing the audience with powerful performances that are delivered with the type of professional showmanship usually reserved for seasoned pros.